Family and friends of Northampton Area High School’s Class of 2016 entered Stabler Arena June 4 with faces of joy and excitement. As they made their way to their seats, they were greeted by monitors displaying the yearlong journey for the Class of 2016. From the superlative winners to various activity videos filmed throughout the year, audience members were treated to a glimpse of the seniors’ daily lives as the Northampton Area High School orchestra played a variety of melodies.

Once the 4 p.m. hour struck, the 115th annual commencement was underway, as members of the Class of 2016 made their way down the aisle to the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance.” Dressed in black and white gowns, the men and women knew the time had come. Their high school careers were about to come to a close. As each member of the graduating class found a seat, Principal Robert Steckel welcomed everyone to the ceremony while introducing all of those who would speak throughout the evening.

Northampton Area School District Superintendent Joseph Kovalchik was next up to the podium. Before getting into his speech, Kovalchik thanked all of the veterans who were in attendance for the ceremony.

“Graduation from high school is widely considered as the first step into adulthood - no more two-hour delays because of snow and no more anticipation for half-days.” Kovalchik said. “For both the graduating class and parents of the graduating class, I know that emotions are running across the spectrum, anticipation and excitement for what’s next.”

Kovalchik went on to speak about the different paths some may take and how, in the end, the parents, faculty and staff all hope they have provided the Class of 2016 with enough knowledge.

“Did we provide them enough?” he asked. “I don’t think we have anything to worry about. I don’t believe you need quotes or inspiration from me because you (the class) have done so much that you inspire me. And I thank you for doing that.

“I was a graduate of Northampton High School. My son is a member of the graduating Class of 2016. And this may not be politically correct for me to say, but I don’t care: 2016, you’re my favorite class of all time! I wish you all the best that life has to offer,” Kovalchik said.

Kovalchik then honored the 50th-year anniversary Class of 1966, reading the names of all in attendance. At the end of the roll call, the Class of 2016 gave the Class of 1966 a standing ovation, showing the respect and pride that goes into being a Konkrete Kid.

Salutatorian Auria Enright then spoke on the topic of aspiration. She touched upon how cellphones have come such a long way and how the members of the class have too come a long way.

Enright discussed the late Steve Jobs and how his never-settle attitude should always serve as a reminder for the Class of 2016.

Valedictorian Julia Skrapits was next to speak, congratulating the students on their achievements, while thanking loved ones for their support and faculty for their inspiration.

“We will join a long tradition of excellence; you will have the freedom to create your own history,” Skrapits said, before giving a speech about the Wright brothers and the invention of flight.

“We have the inspiration from our experience to help us take flight,” she said. “So go against the wind, look into the face of uncertainty and soar! Congratulations, Class of 2016!”

Reflecting on the past while trying to envision the future is what graduation ceremonies are all about. The officers of the Class of 2016 spoke on certain aspects each had gone through during their time at Northampton.

Treasurer David Rehrig spoke about elementary school days and how much things change from who you could have become while joking around with faculty and staff.

Secretary Jolene Makovsky spoke about middle school and how the different activities lead you to different friends, who helped shape who you are even if you are no longer close.

Vice President Katie Wasilko spoke about high school and how the evolution came to a close and how every student should be proud of the accomplishments they have achieved.

Lastly, President Megan Heffelfinger told a story involving her trying to sneak a coffee into school and getting caught. She used the short story as an example of how one should never let their character diminish just because somebody else told them no.

“We are the only people in control; if you go for something, be the best! Or don’t be the best, but try. Six years ago, we were brought together from different schools, and, now today, we leave from one. We are all Konkrete Kids, and we always will be,” she said.

After the speeches had concluded, senior members of the high school chorus sang “Friends, Always in My Heart.”

Afterward, the presentation of diplomas began, and each member of the Class of 2016 walked across the stage to the sound of family and friends cheering them on.

The school’s alma mater was sung by Elizabeth Horvath and Zachary Ohmacht upon completion of roll call.

The ceremony concluded with caps being flung into the air.